On Computers: Getting started with your gifted electronics

There it is under the tree, a package that looks suspiciously like something electronic. Here's what to do when confronted with a new device. (This advice is borne of experience.)

• Don't just tear into it. Be patient. Lay out everything in the box. Don't destroy or toss the packaging, as you'll need it if the gift must go back. Take care not to misplace small parts.

• Learn the rules. That means spending a few minutes with the manual or quick-start sheet if it has one. It's amazing how many users miss valuable features simply because they have not read the instructions. Your first challenge here is to discover where the "on" button is located.

• Don't be disappointed when you try to turn it on and get nothing. The first step is to charge the battery. Most laptops, cells and tablets arrive with partial charges, if any. Prepare yourself for a life of unending recharging.

• Electronic gear is reliable, but you'll need to test this before the return privilege expires. If it's going to break, it probably will happen in the first 24 hours of use. Keep the device on for that time as a break-in period.

• Don't register your unit without first using it for a few days to make sure everything's working. Go through the manual and try all of the features such as email, sound and videos. Keep sales slips, warranty cards, tech-support information and serial and model numbers with the manuals in a safe place.

• Take a close look at what software came with the device. You will have a lot to learn and to delete. Some come with a trial period. Don't fall for these if you do not want to spend the money. There are free apps for office chores and virus protection. All devices with a wireless connection should come with a permanent firewall, so don't pay for it.

• You'll find a selection of games. Only a few will be free. Most are trials to get you hooked and then try to extract money on a website. Don't immediately write off games. A few, such as Solitaire and Jewels, are an easy way to train your fingers for touch screens. There is a purpose to these mindless time wasters.

• Once you're online, do some research. The handiest advice is how to preserve battery time. Many newcomers find their battery life is about of half what's listed. That's due to not closing apps properly or running power hogs such as GPS and Bluetooth without needing them. You can vastly extend battery life by developing good habits.

• Phones and tablets require proper handling. Their weakest link is the glass screen. Learn to hold the device securely and always be aware that dropping it could destroy the screen. Don't let children handle the device without proper cautioning and training. Your first accessory purchases should be a screen protector and case.

• Be selective in deciding what to save on the device. Some users never delete anything, resulting in a memory jammed with useless photos, email and storage-hogging video clips. It's always better to store less, not more. If you want to hoard, buy a supplementary SD storage card if your unit accepts it.

Using your new device will soon become second nature. That's when things get really fun.